Behavioral Health Technician

Job Description

Job Description

Position Summary:

The Behavioral Health Technician (BHT) provides direct support, supervision, skills training, and guidance to clients receiving behavioral health or substance use treatment services. The BHT assists in implementing individualized service plans, ensures client safety, promotes daily functioning, and supports clients in developing coping skills, emotional regulation, and independent living abilities.

A qualified BHT demonstrates professionalism, empathy, strong communication, and the ability to maintain appropriate boundaries within a therapeutic environment.

Essential Duties & Responsibilities

Client Support & Monitoring

• Provide direct supervision and support to clients in residential or outpatient settings.
• Monitor client behavior, safety, and adherence to program expectations.
• Assist clients with daily living skills including hygiene, chores, routines, and medication reminders (per policy).
• Support clients in developing coping skills, emotional regulation, and conflict resolution.

Documentation & Reporting

• Complete timely, accurate, and clinically appropriate progress notes.
• Report changes in client behavior, symptoms, or safety concerns to supervisory staff.
• Maintain confidentiality in accordance with HIPAA and state guidelines.

Crisis Intervention

• Assist in de-escalating clients using trauma-informed approaches.
• Support crisis response protocols and report incidents immediately.
• Facilitate safe environment practices and follow agency crisis plans.

Group Facilitation

• Lead or co-facilitate psychoeducational, life skills, or recovery-focused groups.
• Encourage participation and provide structure during group activities.
• Assist in developing group lesson plans when assigned.

Program Operations

• Assist with client orientations, classroom checks, and safety walkthroughs.
• Support facility cleanliness and ensure compliance with program procedures.
• Communicate professionally with team members and participate in staff meetings as required.

Qualifications

Education:

• High School Diploma or GED required.
• Behavioral Health Technician Certificate required.

Experience:

• At least 1 year of behavioral health, substance use, or human services experience required (or meeting state’s BHT qualification criteria).
• Experience with trauma-informed care preferred.
• Experience in residential, detox, or mental health settings is beneficial.

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities:

• Understanding of behavioral health disorders, substance use, and recovery principles.
• Ability to maintain personal and professional boundaries.
• Strong written and verbal communication skills.
• Ability to manage challenging behaviors calmly and professionally.
• Competence in crisis de-escalation and safety protocols.
• Ability to model professionalism and positive coping skills for clients.

Certifications (Preferred but Not Required):

• CPR/First Aid
• Fingerprint clearance card
• Negative TB test
• Valid driver’s license (if transporting clients)

Work Environment

• May require standing, walking, and occasional lifting.
• Requires calm, professional demeanor in a therapeutic environment.
• May involve exposure to high-stress situations or crisis behaviors.